Harper: Phillies 'hate losing games more than we like winning 'em'
The Philadelphia Phillies own the best record in the National League, and Bryce Harper wants to keep that momentum going.
"We hate losing games more than we like winning 'em," Harper said, according to USA Today's Gabe Lacques.
Harper's comments come after the Phillies lost back-to-back series against the Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles. Despite the losses, the Phillies are in a much better spot than they were at this stage in the past two seasons, when they hovered just above .500.
Philadelphia's confidence remains high thanks to star players like Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Alec Bohm, as well as stellar pitching from its starting staff and bullpen.
Role players have also played a key role. Edmundo Sosa, for example, has posted an .838 OPS with 15 extra-base hits in 41 games filling in for the injured Trea Turner.
"As long as you can help us win games and have a good head on your shoulders and understand that what matters is the name on the front, you're part of this team," Harper said. "It's a lot of fun to watch."
The Phillies have what looks like an easy stretch coming up, with series against the San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, and Miami Marlins.
"We want to bully teams," Phillies reliever Jeff Hoffman said. "We want to be the deeper team that can go deeper into the night."